Discovery cancels hearing in W.Va. health lawsuit

CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) — A West Virginia auto dealer still objects to the federal health care overhaul requiring insurance to cover abortion-inducing drugs and contraceptives. But Joe Holland has also learned that the health plan for his employees already covers them.

Holland and his South Charleston Chevrolet dealership sued federal officials last month. He argues the coverage mandate violates his religious beliefs. His lawyers asked a federal judge to block that mandate while his legal challenge is pending.

But Tuesday's hearing for that request was cancelled after Holland discovered he had been wrong about his business' existing coverage.

Lawyer Jeremiah Dys said Holland remains opposed to the federal requirement. Holland plans to revise his lawsuit and seek a permanent ban.

A federal appeals court rejected a similar challenge from a Christian university this month.